The Dyatlov Pass Incident

In February 1959, nine experienced hikers died under mysterious circumstances in the Ural Mountains of Russia. Their tent was found cut open from the inside, and their bodies were scattered across the mountainside, some nearly naked despite sub-zero temperatures. Several had severe internal injuries but no external wounds. One victim was missing her tongue and eyes. Soviet investigators found strange levels of radiation on some clothing. The official cause of death was listed as 'compelling natural force.' Theories ranged from avalanche to infrasound-induced panic to secret military tests. In 2020, Swiss researchers used avalanche simulations to show a delayed slab avalanche could explain the injuries, and hypothermia could explain the bizarre behavior (paradoxical undressing is common in late-stage hypothermia). However, the missing tongue and radiation remain unexplained. The incident has inspired countless books, films, and conspiracy theories.